The Midway

You'll find this place tucked away on New Bridge Lane, where it's been quietly building a reputation as one of Stockport's best all-rounders. The moment you step inside, you'll notice they've managed that tricky feat of updating a traditional pub without sanitising all the character out of it – still feels like a proper local, just one that happens to serve excellent food alongside well-kept ales. The kitchen turns out proper pub grub with a bit more care than most, and the beer selection shows they actually know what they're doing behind the bar. It's the sort of place where you can pop in for a quick pint after work or settle in for a proper meal with mates. The locals clearly approve – you'll struggle to get a table on weekend evenings without booking ahead.